Neiman Marcus Face Backlash Over Catalog
Neiman Marcus has stirred quite a reaction with the rebranding of its nearly century-old Christmas Book catalog to the more neutral Holiday Book, a move that some see as symbolic of deeper shifts within the company.
Since 1926, the Christmas Book has embodied the luxury retailer’s reputation for high-end, imaginative gift offerings—many unattainable for the average shopper but dazzling enough to draw attention every year. Its standout “Fantasy Gifts” have ranged from rare sports cars to exclusive art pieces, but for the first time, the catalog will no longer carry the “Christmas” title.
The rebranding, though, has not come without controversy. According to sources cited by the New York Post, the decision has upset long-time employees and even some loyal customers who see the removal of “Christmas” as emblematic of corporate overreach under the direction of CEO Geoffroy van Raemdonck.
The CEO, who has overseen significant restructuring and layoffs, has faced criticism internally, with some employees suggesting the focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives has taken priority over core business objectives.
“If Geoffroy and his team put as much time into running the business as they did on expressing viewpoints about DEI, we would be buying Saks or launching an IPO,” one employee told the Post.
For many, the Christmas Book catalog has been iconic, not only for its nostalgic brand but also for its fantastical and aspirational gift options. The 2024 catalog does not disappoint in that regard, still offering eye-popping options like a historic $1.9 million Spanish royal carriage and an opulent Namibian safari priced at $777,777.
However, instead of a cover highlighting the rebrand, it simply reads “A Neiman’s Fantasy,” adding to speculation that the change is as much about subtle positioning as it is about inclusivity.
Amidst these changes, Neiman Marcus faces another potential shift on the horizon: an acquisition by HBC, the parent company of Saks Fifth Avenue, scheduled for 2025.
For Neiman Marcus employees, many see this rebrand as one of the last major changes under van Raemdonck’s leadership. “We do feel that this was a last hurrah for Geoffroy,” another insider revealed.